Duration: 60 minutes
Status: Now available on demand

Language is deeply tied to culture, identity, and community. In this recorded webinar, presenters from the United States and New Zealand share how they are designing and implementing culturally and linguistically responsive programs that affirm families’ strengths and histories.

Through this strengths-based lens, their programs are not only supporting early language development but also building deep connections across communities and creating more equitable access to resources for families with children from birth to age three.

Presenters:

Emma Quigan
Emma leads community-based initiatives with Talking Matters in New Zealand, where she designs coaching models that promote rich language environments at home and in early childhood settings. A trained speech and language therapist, Emma previously worked in professional development for New Zealand’s Ministry of Education and is pursuing a master’s degree in education.

Pedro Mendez
Pedro is part of the Early Learning Department at Denver Public Library, where he leads LENA Start and early outreach efforts for children ages zero to three. Deeply embedded in the Denver community, Pedro champions holistic, responsive family programming that is community-powered and equity-driven.

Sisi Dong Brinn
Regional Lead of Early Childhood Partnerships at LENA, Sisi specializes in leadership development, equity-focused program design, and inclusive facilitation. With academic training from Dickinson College and Johns Hopkins University, Sisi brings a passion for advancing access and opportunity for all families.